The Texas BBQ Forum

As the subject suggests, I'm doing a bit of comparison on these two pits. I'm currently using a Big Hat Marfa, and it's hands down a complete disappointment. Only Matt can get me a pit before Christmas, when I have a big cook, but I would hate to rush if the LSG is the way to go.

Matt's has the 3/8 firebox standard, looking at doing a 1/2 with LSG. LSG I'd also add a warming oven, TBD on if Matt's will do that. On the LSG I'm also not sure about double door vs a single with counter - the counter option adds a lot more money than I expected but seems like it would be more convenient. I'm accustomed to a cabinet door style and haven't dealt with a horizontal offset in ages, so I'm not sure. Either way I don't want a steak grill on my firebox, but that's a trivial detail.

A (seemingly, to me) large difference is Matt's being reverse flow vs LSG being traditional. I've never cooked on a reverse so I'm not sure if it's just hype or really better.

I was pretty well settled on Matt's since he's relatively nearby and has great prices, but after sniffing around I learned about LSG and am torn on which direction to go.

Any input from folks would be appreciated. I cook several times per month, mostly brisket, pork ribs, turkey, and sausage.

I'm waiting on my Lonestar grill right now. All the info I have gathered shows that the temp across the grates are pretty stable and close enough to not matter to much.
Now a reverse flow I haven't a clue. Drafting might be of concern on some brands.
Lonestar I believe has taken all the great ideas from all the best smokers and combined them into one. Tested and are putting out a great product.
Great firebox also should be noted since this is the week link in all smokers.

Look at BBQ Pits by David Klose.

Not familiar with Matt’s but LSG makes a great cooker. Also check into Shirley. They have a really nice sized backyard model. One of the forum members here was able to get one in record time just by calling and asking. They had a cancellation and just happened to have a truck with an empty spot on it heading to Texas. Seems like he got it in a week or two. Now If you talk custom with them be prepared for a year plus wait


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I won't try and sway you either way, however I do love my LSG.

Single door with C/W is the way to go.... and I added even more weight (lead shot) to my C/W and the door is effortless to raise and lower. Even if you're young, an LSG pit may be the last pit you'll buy - get the C/W now.

R/F vs. traditional flow.... I'd used both. They each have their quirks. I can't say one is better - just different. You'll learn how best to use your pit regardless of type.

Amen to no grilling option on the firebox. Some folks love that feature - again, I've had one before and didn't like it nor use it.

If possible, I always recommend you go visit the pitmaker's shop and ask questions, test out the features you want (single/double door, etc.) and get a feel for the company's attitude. One thing that sold me on LSG was the tightness of the door opening... so precise I had to add a special port for thermometer wires.

Best of luck in you decision...

txsmkmstr wrote:
Single door with C/W is the way to go.... and I added even more weight (lead shot) to my C/W and the door is effortless to raise and lower.

I did the same on my Blaz'n GridIron.
When open I was always worried about wind gust blowing lid down on me as when open it was barely past the equilibrium point.
Had a 10 lb bar welded onto the counterweight.
Definitely easier to open.